Description
A bright, seasonal salad of tender baby spinach, juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and toasted nuts tossed in a tangy-sweet balsamic-honey vinaigrette. Fresh, quick, and perfect for lunch or as a colorful side.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans or almonds, toasted
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: If toasting nuts, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread 1/2 cup pecans or almonds on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant, then cool.
- Assemble the Dish: In a large mixing bowl, place 6 cups baby spinach, add 2 cups sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, and the cooled toasted nuts.
- Cook to Perfection: No cooking required for the salad itself; ensure the nuts are toasted and dressing is well emulsified.
- Finishing Touches: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Divide among 4 plates and serve immediately, garnishing with a few whole strawberries or an extra sprinkle of nuts if desired.
Notes
- Toast the nuts until just fragrant to boost flavor and texture.
- Slice strawberries just before serving to keep them juicy and fresh.
- Store dressing and toasted nuts separately if making ahead to prevent sogginess.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: strawberry spinach salad, summer salad, berry salad, spinach salad with strawberries, quick healthy salad, balsamic honey vinaigrette